Wed 1st January
Got up after a few hours sleep and went to the Oak Hill NYD parkrun! We then went for a special name-day lunch at the Harvester in Potters Bar. Then catching up on sleep…
Friday 3rd January
In the evening we went to see Jasmine Alice at The Wellington pub in Borehamwood! Amazing voice and great entertainment
Wed 8th Jan
Freezing cold day but I went to the Peace Garden and worked on the Labyrinth.
In the afternoon I did a “pitch” inspection on the Astro at The Hive and later I went to referee a game Barnet U18 v Ickenham U18, ended up 8-0 to the Home team.
Thu 9th Jan
I went to Dr Challoner’s High School and gave a Humanism talk to the GCSE group.
In the evening I did a podcast with Francoise, Judith and Jeffrey.
Fri, 10th Jan
Went to the Radlett Centre to see The Police tribute band, The Rozzers.
Sat, 11th Jan
A frozen morning but still made it to the Cassiobury Parkrun.
At midday I drove to Baldock Arena to referee a game between Arlesey v Sawbridgeworth. A bit one sided at 5-0
Sun, 12 Jan
Another freezing cold day but managed to get to Oaklands to referee a women’s game: Oaklands 2-3 Hitchin Belles.
In the evening I did an hour of Greek and an hour of English music on Koubebi Radio.
Tue, 14th Jan
Alex was on a night shift on Monday night so just after he woke up we met him at Simmons near where he lives. Today was his 28th birthday and it was lovely seeing him even for an hour.
Wed, 15th Jan
In the morning I went to the Peace Garden for a bit of work on the Labyrinth. Judith was there also working in the garden.
after lunch I drove to Leighton Buzzard and gave a talk to the whole of year 5 in their Hall. The talk on humanism went really well.
When I came home I went for short run and then watched the football on tv in the evening.
Thu, 16th Jan
I went for a longish run and then went with Katerina to Tesco for late breakfast!
After that we drive straight to a Watford Mencap meeting for Stefanos and then drive straight round to my mum.
On the way back at the junction of the A406 and the A1, my car came into contact with another car, resulting in a dent on the left wing…
Came home in time to do my chat and debate internet show.
Fri 17th Jan
Got up and made a call to the car insurance company to log in yesterday’s car incident.
Then picked up Stefanos & Katerina and went to Barnet for fish & chips with Vaso.
Sat 18th Jan
Drove to Cassiobury for the Parkrun. Then dashed to The Met for Garston Pumas v Garston Wildcats at U18, final score 1-2.
Straight from the first match to the Astro at Evergreen for Watford ladies 1-1 Chipperfield at U18.
Sun, 19th Jan,
Drove to East Barnet in the morning to referee a “friendly” between Temple Fortune and UCL.
At 2pm I refereed at The Met, Garston Mets v Hartham.
In the evening the usual Greek and English show on Koubebi Radio.
Mon, 20th Jan
A midday 4 mile run then a drive to Hitchin for a short walk followed by cake and hot chocolate!
in the evening I did an impromptu show with reggae music on WAH-radio!
Tue 21st Jan
Went for a short drive and hot chocolate & cake at Chipperfield via Sarratt.
In the evening I popped in briefly to see the set-up at the 3rd Scout group in St Albans. I’ll be visiting them in March to talk to them about humanism.
Wed 22nd Jan
Early rise to go to the hygienist and dentist in Bushey.
At midday I went to Oaklands College to referee the game Oaklands (Arsenal) v Charlton Athletic, 4-1, no cards.
Thu 23 Jan
Taking it easy today as my left foot is hurting a bit. Rainy day so we drive to a nearby cafe for a big English breakfast at lunchtime!
In the afternoon we went to Cafe Bianco for cake and hot chocolate but I think I left my cap/ hat there.
In the evening I had a chat on WAH radio with Steve Trew about his book:
The debate / discussion on WAH radio was: Hamas v Israel: what next?
24 Jan
No running today, did editing and uploading of podcasts.
In the evening we went to the Palace Theatre for a chat and coffee with John D, Peter Jenkins and Gill.
We saw the Bollywood Time Machine show and then walked back with Stefanos from his Popworld event.
25th Jan
A drive to Leavesden ParkRun and then up to Greenwood park in St Albans.
St Albans v Ruislip Rangers in cup semifinal ended 1-2.
Sun 26th Jan
Early rise and a drive to Bedford for a 10mile race. Chilly but thankfully dry! Finished in 1:28:36, a silver standard. Katerina finished around a minute behind me.
Saw Jan, who finished first in her age group around 1:20 and Chrissie and Andy were there.
Drove back, showered out of the wet clothes and onto referee a women’s game at a very muddy Met Club. It ended Garston 0-1 Ware.
Mon 27th Jan
Drove to Vaso’s house and brought stuff and books down from the loft.
Drove to mum and took her & Myroula to Wood Green.
Tue 28th
At lunchtime I went to a lunchtime concert at The P Sch.
In the evening I went to the Purcell School again for a rock music concert by bands of Lilly Wasserman and Oscar Brown!
Wed 29th Jan
Went to The Peace Garden and did some work on the Labyrinth. Judith, Francoise and James were there. Got my extended car park permit for Cassiobury Park.
In the afternoon I went to Joan of Arc school to referee an U15 boys cup game. It got a bit aggressive in the second half resulting in SinBins and a red card for violent conduct. There was also aggressiveness after the game and a parent telling me I ruined the game!
At 7:30 I went to the meeting of Fishers Field committee and volunteered to start a weekly garden club mainly litter picking on Friday mornings. While my car was parked there one of the committee women hit the front side bumper … will need to take it to Chris to take another look…
At 8:30 I went to the Merchant Taylor’s school for the Watford Joggers awards. I got a Gold Brechnut and my 11th Motiv8!
Thu 30th Jan
In the morning I took the car to Chris to take a look at the damaged bumper.
I then walked to the Tudor surgery to see the doctor about my recent headaches.
In the afternoon I went to referee an U13 girls Cup game, Rickmansworth 3-0 Watford Grammar.
Katerina and I went to the Fisher’s Field for a bit of litter picking.
In the evening I had issues with the sound on the PC, but managed to sort it just before 8pm so I managed to do a debate on Zoom.
Fri 31st Jan
In the morning I went to Fisher’s Field and did some cutting back of the bramble to get to lots of litter, mainly cans. Stefanos came and helped for a while.
In the afternoon we went to Costas and bought some fish & chips which we took round to Vaso’s house to eat.
On our return I stopped at Enterprise car rentals to pick up a courtesy car for when mine goes for repairs on Monday.
FEBRUARY 2025
Sat 1st Feb
Jogged to Cassiobury Park, did the parkrun and jogged back.
Walked to Fishers Field for a bit more clipping of bramble and clearing bottles and cans.
Drove to Pinner to referee an U14 boys match, Youngs Elite 7-0 Rayners Lane.
In the evening we went to the Pump House for an LGBT event organised by Alex Williams.
Great to see Steve Austin & Pete White perform a couple of songs!
Sun 2nd Feb
Got up leisurely and went to Parmiters for an U11 game.
A day spent thanking “happy birthday” messages.
Did my radio shows for Koubebi Radio in the evening.
Mon 3rd Feb
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At around 10 the man from the car repair shop came to pick up the Qashkai.
At 2:30 we met George & Sophia in Watford and went for a Brunch and cake to celebrate my birthday a day after…
Tue 4th
A short jog in the morning and then did a bit more clearing out at Fisher’s Field.
At 2pm we went to Vaso’s for late lunch and then went to Costco to buy new mattresses.
In the evening I attended a Zoom forum discussing the future on Inter Faith Week.
Wed 5th
In the morning I drove to Hemel Hempstead to have my left foot C-Ray’d, just to check. Had a pain while running for a few weeks.
At 1pm I went to Westfield Astro for the U18 Watford v Oxford, it ended 1-1.
Thu 6th
Drove to Vaso with her new mattress and then went to my mum. Got a locksmith to fix the garden door and then booked their taxi for when they arrive in Cyprus on Monday.
Back home did a short run and then did my debate show/podcast.
Fri 7th Feb
At 9am I went to Fishers Field and cleared the last bit of the bushes of cans. Raj came and helped.
After a short run we went with Stefanos first for breakfast at Tesco then for me to get my blood tests at the Tudor surgery.
We then visited Roulla and then Nitsa.
At 7:30 I watched the Darwin Lecture 2025 with Jim Al Khalili: The story of the human brain.
Sat 8th Feb
Drove to Leavesden Parkrun in the courtesy Mazda and after a very slippery run in around 32 min I drove to Greenwood Park for the QF between St Albans U18 v Royston.
Drove straight to Westfield for an U15 boys game for Titans.
Sun 9th Feb
Morning refereeing at Westfield for Titans, an U11 and a more demanding U15. Home coach cautioned and the away captain sent off.
Straight from Westfield to Berkhamsted and an easy game, 4-0 win over Bedford. Casey Evans was the captain of the Home team.
The radio shows suffered from a terrible sound from my microphone, the settings were all messed up.
I decided not to stay up to watch the Super Bowl… as it turned out it was a one sided affair with Eagles smashing the Chiefs.
Mon 10th Feb
Got up at 6am and went to pick up my Mum & Myroula to take them to Luton airport for their flight to Cyprus.
At 11 Simon came over to fix the non-flushing upstairs WC.
In the afternoon I went for an eye test & check up.
It was a miserable, grey, cold and wet day. No running.
Tue 11th Feb
Morning trip to the Labyrinth for a bit of maintenance and on the way home I checked on Fishers field and removed some fresh cans.
Drove the courtesy Mazda back to Enterprise Rentals and jogged home.
Packed a small case for the flight to Cyprus in the morning.
Wed 12th Feb
Early rise to drive to Stansted and a flight to Páfos. It was a smooth flight spoilt by a little screaming / kicking little girl in the seats behind.
At Páfos airport we picked up a shuttle minibus to our rental car place (Green Motion) and a short drive to Kato Páfos. Found the place easily and then got changed for a run along a lovely, long straight cycle path.
Then a short walk to the nearby King’s Avenue Mall and the tastiest souvlaki for a very long time!
Katerina joined the Watford Joggers AGM remotely and I watched the Everton v Liverpool clash on my iPhone with a very dramatic finish at 90+8 which saw an equaliser by Everton (2-2) and three red cards after that!!
Thu 13th Feb
A very early rise at 4sm and the long drive to Nicosia to meet the “κοινοτάρχη” of Zodhia and he drove us to the offices to sort out a replacement Cypriot ID.
Just before that we popped in to see my mum and Myroula at the flat in Strovolos.
We then drove to a nearby Mall for some lunch and then to a hyper market with a restaurant where we met up with Haji and Marina.
We then drove to the Larnaca Mall and we spent some time with Polly before driving back to Páfos.
It was a long. tiring day.
Fri 14th
Got up later than usual and went for a run along the seafront of Kato Páfos.
After the run we went for a walk along the same path and then we had lunch at The Mall.
In the afternoon Skevi came to see us at the Mall and then Yiannis & Krysta came from Limassol to see us!
Sat 15th
The morning jog was towards the East from the castle area along the sea front. We went by lots of amazing hotel complexes along the sea shore.
We then walked up the hill to the town centre. Lovely views from up there and amazing little shops.
Down the hill we went to the Mall for lunch from Sklavenitis.
Then rested for the rest of the evening.
Sun 16th
An early morning for the drive to Astromeritis. We went via Troodos and arrived in good time, just under a 2 he drive.
The church service was long and afterwards we handed out “κόλυβα” for my brother’s memorial.
After the church we went to Sofoulla’s house with mum, Myroula, Roulla, Pambos, Androulla and a few others and had drinks and snacks.
We then drove to Roulla’s house in Anayia and spend an hour or so there.
After that we went back the Cyprus mall and there we met up with Ellie, Alecos and Anna Avramidou.
We drove back to Páfos on the motorway through Limassol. Went for a short run along the cycle path and then to bed for a few hours sleep.
Monday 17th
Up at 3am to drop the car back to the rental office then to Páfos airport for the flight to Athens.
From the Athens airport we picked up our hire car and went straight to the flat in Kallifrona where we met our new tenant-to-be Foteini, packed a few things from the store room into the car and drove to Kórinthos.
A short run along kalzmia then a few walks around town.
Tue 18th
Running this morning was at the stadium of Kórinthos FC, round and round and round.
Then drove to Athens but my phone wouldn’t link to the Internet or GPS! I managed to find my way to Kallifrona, load most of the stuff from the storeroom and drove them back to Kórinthos. Then carried them 3 sets of stairs up to the storeroom room on the 3rd floor!
Walked to “perivolakia” where there was traditional music and dancing!
Wed 19th
A short jog along Kalamia beach to the bridge and back.
Then drove to Keratsini to see Souela.
She took me food shopping… then I drove to see Zoi and Penny then came too!
After that I drove to Kallifrona and emptied the last few things from the underground store room and brought them back to Korinth.
Sat 22nd
Early ish rise for a drive to Kallifrona to sign tenancy contracts with Foteini.
Back to Kórinthos for a 5 mile run.
We then went to “Glykin vraston” and had a hot chocolate and loukoumades with Niko and Eleni. Stella came too.
After that we went to the nearby Floisvos cinema and saw “υπάρχω” about the life of Stelios Kazantzidis. Very enjoyable.
Sun 23rd
A run to Poseidonia and back with stops to take pics for the Tastic competition Katerina is doing!
Drove to Loutraki for a souvlaki lunch and then walked to the stadium to watch the derby between Loutraki and Kórinthos which finished 0-1.
Tue 25th
A 2:45am start to get to Athens airport for the flight back to Stansted.
Alexandros popped round to see us briefly and tell us his news, including a new course he is taking for being trained in dealing with major incidents.
My car was then delivered after the repairs to the wing.
At 7:30pm a few of us went for a meal at The Raj Garden. WAH members, Neill, Anne, Dennis and Natalie popped in at the end.
Thu 27th
Went to Luton to pick up mum, Myroula and Androulla and took them to their homes.
In the evening I did a WAH radio with The Sway and then a chat show discussing the effects of Covid on the outlook on life.
Fri 28th Feb
Back to Luton Airport, this time to pick up Yiannis, Krista, Χριστίνα και Δανάη. The last one was unwell on the flight so I took them straight to the nearest A&E. Naturally most of the day was spent nearby until around 4pm when I took them to their hotel in Uxbridge.
Sat 1st Mar
Went for a parkrun at a muddy and undulating Panshanger park.
After that I drove to Welwyn for a top of the table in the Church league.
Sun 2nd Mar
In the morning we drove to Berkhamsted where we took part in the 5 mile fun run (?). I finished in 40:25
At just after 2pm we went to Johnny’s Bar and saw the first half of Alex’s Dial Up show.
In the evening Yiannis, Krista, Christina and Danae came over, we had an Indian take away and then played Monopoly. Danae won.
They stay over the night as they have a morning flight from Luton.
Mon 3rd Mar
Early start to take Yiannis and family to Luton airport.
Unfortunately a week later I got a speeding ticket in the post (81mph when the limit is 70mph)
When I returned I went for a run, checked around FF for any cans and then did some gardening and a visit to the recycling.
Tue 4th March
In the evening I attended the 3rd Griffin Cubs group in St Albans and gave them a presentation on humanism. It went really well.
Wed 5th Mar
In the morning I walked with Stefanos to Delrow and then went for a short run.
Then I went to the Peace Garden for some work around the Labyrinth stones!
After that I went to referee a college game Kings Langley 2-8 Barnet Development.
In the evening we went to Mum’s Bistro with George, Sophia, Mario’s, Michael and saw Jasmine sings some lovely jazz songs!
Thu, 6th Mar
Today we went to Brent Cross to meet Aggeliki (Katerina’s 2nd cousin) and Yiannis.
In the evening I picked them up from Edgware and brought them to our house for a few hours of eating sweet cakes and watching football on tv.
Fri 7th March
At 9am I went to the Fishers Field where I did some clearing of some litter. Hazel joined me for a chat while I was there.
After a short 4mi run I did some litter picking in Mill Way and cleared some of the bramble at the end of Mill Wag towards the bridge.
Sat 8th Mar
Leavesden country Psrk run with Stefanos.
U15 boys game at Beaumont School followed by a Watford Ladies U18 game at Everett’s.
Sun 9th March
An early trip to Ashlyn’s school for a very one sided U18 boys game followed by an U14 boys game nearby.
Then drove to Oaklands college for a women’s game.
Radio shows on Koubebi in the evening.
Wed, 12th Mar
An early short run and then drive to the Peace Garden for some Labyrinth work.
At 2pm I went to referee St Albans v Kings Lynn (0-2).
After that I gave a talk to Haji Mike’s class in Uni of Nicosia via Zoom. I talked to them about doing Debates and talk shows on the radio.
Fri, 14th March
In the morning I went to do some litter picking / clearing of bramble at Fishers Field. Hazel also joined me.
We then went to visit my mum with Stefanos and also had lunch round my mother in Law.
In the evening I travelled with Anna to Euston and then went to see a play at Theatro Technis, Pandora’s box with Eve Polycarpou and Eylul Arif. It was very powerful, very moving!
Sat 15th March
Skipped parkrun so I wouldn’t be late for the 10am ko at Met police Club, the game was so calm and gentle in the first half… then two sub bins and a coach in the book…
I then got a last minute call to go to Greenford for a men’s game which was incident free.
In the evening we went to Milton Keynes to see Navaro at The Stables, Stage 2!
Tue 18th March
Drove to Denham Country Park and had lunch at the cafe there. We then walked around the village and the huge golf course.
Sun, 23th March
Day for the Hillingdon 20 mile run.
The first 15 miles were ok, but then really ran out of steam… finished in 3:33:09.
I’m the evening I did my regular Greek & English radio shows on Koubebi Radio.
Mon 24th Mar
Drove to Gerard’s Cross and then to Beaconsfield just to check out the areas and walk along the high streets.
Wed 26th March
Usual drive to The Peace Garden and then refereeing at Westfield.
In the afternoon I recorded a music show with Farah and then went to the Purcell with Stefanos for the Jazz concert.
Fri, 28th Mar
Went to FF for a little litter pick and then with Stefanos we went and got a couple of picture frames done, one to take to my mum.
Lunch of fish & chips from Kosta which we ate round m-in-law’s house before visiting my mum.
In the evening we drove to The Playground theatre in Latimer Rd W10 to see the play: Love in a foreign land.
Sat 29th Mar,
Evening out with George and Sofia at Mezopoly.
Sun 30th Mar,
Three football matches to referee, one after the other!
Dashed home for pizza, dashed to Purcell to see Anna in the Concerto Finals then dashed home to do Radio shows on Koubebi Radio!
Mon 31st Mar
Met with Peter Jenkins at Fishers Field and walked around, discussing birds and biodiversity.
Wed 2 April,
Went to Fishers Field to meet with Hertsmere’s Parks specialist. Then went to Peace Garden briefly.
After lunch I went to St Albans to buy a music stand to use in my talks.
In the evening I attended the Friends of Fishers Field committee meeting at The British Legion club.
Friday 4th April
Went to Fishers Field and did some cutting back of the bramble. Later I did some tree identifying.
In the evening we went to Mum’s Bistro to see Eric Eracleous sing. Then gave him a lift to Edgware.
Sat 5th April
Park run at Leavesden followed by refereeing at Parmiters.
Then drive down to a hotel just outside Southampton, for the marathon on Sunday. Walked to the airport / train station and back, then drove into Southampton to check possible parking for the morning.
Sun 6th April
Set off for the short drive from Eastleigh to Southampton and found a car park. We set off together at 9am for the first look for the Half/Full marathon. Unbroken sunshine all day and I suffered in the second half, but managed to stagger to the finish in just under 5 hours.
After a few hours sleep we went to Eastleigh Harvester for a well deserved meal.
Mon 7th April
After a really nice breakfast at the impressive Molden Fig next to our Lodge, we drove straight back Home to rest.
Thu 10th April,
After a short run in the morning we drove just north of High Wycombe to Hughenden Manor, a National Trust place where Benjamin Disraeli used to live. In the Second World War it was a secret map making establishment. It was a lovely, sunny day and we walked around the grounds and also visited his grave at the church at the bottom of the steep hill.
Fri 11th
After lunch we drove to Cuffley to my sisters house. It was her 70th yesterday so we went to wish her well and had some tea and cake.
I also took my keyboards and Pambos got his bouzouki and we spent a couple of hours jamming!
At 10pm I went to Popworld and gave Stefanos a lift home.
Sat 12th
I picked up Stefanos in the morning and we went to Cassiobury for a Parkrun walk/jog.
Around midday I went to Parmiters to referee an U13 game.
Tue 15th
In the evening we went to the Green Note cafe in Camden Town and heard Laura Dannan in a lovely intimate gig.
Fri 18th
After a short run and some clearing of bramble at FF we went with Stefanos for breakfast at Harvester and then drove to Ellington to see Kia and family.
We took them presents and played with Dimitris and the other boys.
After we drove back to Bushey we walked to The Hoilday Inn for our monthly get-together. Alec joined us for the first time.
Sun 20th
Got up very early and went to the Peace Garden in Cassiobury Park where we planned and carried out an “egg hunt” for the Watford Joggers. Around 13 of them took part, Lucy with her whole family.
After that we cooked some kebabs and went to my mother in laws for lunch.
After that we visited Nicole’s new home at The Ridgeway where George organised a big bbq.
Back home in time to do my radio shows.
Mon 21st
After lunch (breakfast) at Tesco we visited my mum with Stefanos and then Vaso and then Nitsa.
Fri, 25th April
In the morning I did my usual Friday morning clearing of bramble / deadwood at Fishers Field.
Went to a lunch time recital of ex student Litsa Tunnah. Then a long bus / train back to Watford.
Later we went to the Pasta Party at L’Artista with the Watford Joggers.
Mon 28th
In the evening we went to Everyman Barnet cinema to see “Stelios”, the film we saw in Greece under the name “Υπάρχω»
Tue 29th
Last minute appointments to referee at St Albans City ladies v Luton Town FC ladies who needed the win to get promoted! A deflected winner by Luton late in the game caused scenes of celebrations at the final whistle.
Thu 1st May
School speaking at yr 10 RS class at Croxley Danes school.
After lunch at Harvester Garston we voted in the local County elections.
Fri 2nd May
A morning at Fishers Field and then a late breakfast at Tesco with the family and a long walk with Stefanos.
Mon 5th
Helped Katerina to set up a gazebo and sell brownies at the Watford 10K.
I then run the 10k in a time of 51:40
Wed 7th
Took Katerina and Helen to Luton airport for their trip to Menorca.
Thu 8th
Went to St Mary’s church to see the 80th year VE celebrations.
Fri 9th:
Yiannis messaged me from Cyprus. Matina was unwell overnight and he was catching a flight to London. I arranged a consultant at Spire Bushey to see Matina and then I went to pick her up from Uxbridge. Later in the evening Yiannis arrived and I picked him up from Watford Junction.
Sat 10th:
Yiannis and I went to Uxbridge and picked up Matina for an ultrasound scan at Spire Bushey. We then went for brunch at the cafe at Cassiobury Park. Stefanos and Jo happen to be there too!
In the afternoon I went to the Friends Space where I spoke about humanism to the meeting there. There were some questions from the people there. It was an interesting experience.
Sun 11th
Went for a run in the morning then to the nearby Gaelic football pitch to referee a game. Had to send a player off and then the manager (ended up being his dad). One of my Assistants was Nigel T from Watford Joggers.
Straight after the game I went with Yiannis P to watch Spurs v Crystal Palace at the new stadium! Great view, terrible game. 0-2 and CP also had two goals cancelled for off-side.
Back to Bushey we drove to Verulamium Park, walked up the Cathedral and St Albans High st. Found nothing to eat and drove back to Tim Hortons near Sainsbury’s for something there.
Mon 12th
At midday I had a Zoom chat with David Mc and we discussed a possible coordination of our humanist efforts in the future.
At 1pm I went to the Purcell School for their lunchtime concert. Natalie from Watford Humanists also joined me, being a piano teacher that has been at courses at the School before.
Tue 13th
Yiannis, who stayed with me for a few days went back to Cyprus.
In the late afternoon I drove to Hughenden (via Windsor thanks to my car’s SAT NAV) to Hughenden for the piano concert by 4 Purcell students, including Anna Avramidou.
Wed 14th
Katerina returned from Menorca with tales of her trail runs that did not go to plan but lots of lovely meals consumed.
Thu 15th:
An early run in the cold breeze, a lunchtime concert at The Purcell and then a drive to Edmonton to see my mum.
Chat show and discussion on my radio podcast in the evening before seeing the last bit of the 2nd semifinal of Eurovision and Greece going into the final.
Fri 16th:
Did a bit of clearing dog poo from the Nature Reserve and then went for a short run.
Then went and picked Matina and took her to Spire Bushey for her second consultation. After I took her back to Uxbridge I went straight to Hendon FC and refereed a friendly U18 game.
Sat 17th:
Had a lie-in and skipped parkrun and litter pick. Went for a short run and then did some gardening and attempted to unclog the patio drain, not very successfully.
Watched the Cup Final where Palace beat Man City 1-0 and then went with Katerina to the Gaitanaki panigyri at Camden Town.
Mon 19th May
Early start to the day as I travelled to Stratford in East London for the NASACRE conference.
I attended this, being a member of the Barnet SACRE group.
It was an interesting event with nice food, snacks & tiramisu!
Tue 20th:
A walk with Stefanos to Delrow followed by a run around Bushey.
Around lunchtime I cut some hedge near the post box at the end of the Road.
In the evening we went to the Palace Theatre to see Pride & Prejudice (sort of).
Wed 21st:
Early rise to get ready to go to the Hilton National nearby on the A41. It was to do my (2nd) Speed Awareness Course. It was quite useful and I avoided the 3 points on my license.
After that we went to The Purcell for a lunchtime concert, some lovely singing from Lia and Larissa with some backing musicians.
We then went to the Harvester in Garston where Alexandros joined us for a birthday meal with his Nana Vaso who turned 79.
Thu 22nd
Finished cutting back some hedges at the corner of Mill Way & Park Avenue.
Collected the printed table cloth with the WAH logo.
After my radio show, Natalie came over and collected it together with some leaflets and books for her open day.
Fri 23rd
Drove up to the Yorkshire Dales to Thirsk for Peter Banks’ wedding reception (a year after the wedding!). Lovely little town with a massive horse racing track opposite the place where we were staying.
Walked into the town and had a really massive special chow mein which we ate at a bench at the town centre.
Sat 24th:
Drove to just past Ripon for the Fountain Abbey parkrun. An amazing location!
In the afternoon we went to Peter & Rachael’s wedding reception (a year after the wedding) at a hall in Thirsk. We had great fun with the dancing and the food was lovely too!
Sun 25th
Drove back to Fountains Abbey for a walk around the gardens and then drove back to London. Saw Stefanos briefly before doing my regular Sunday music show on Koubebi Radio.
Bank Holiday Mon 26th:
Drove with Katerina and Stefanos and visited my mum, and sisters Nitsa & Roulla. We then stopped at Tim Thorntons for a meal to celebrate Stefanos’ birthday (a day early).
Tue 27th
Drove to Barnet to pick up Vaso and drive her and Katerina to Luton airport.
Wed 28 May:
Went to the Peace Garden for a couple of hours. A group of about 12 students took over the Labyrinth so I did some weeding instead.
Thu 29th
Went to the Peace Garden at lunch time and treated the team of students some sweets for the work they did on the Labyrinth.
Sat 31st May
Morning jog to Cassiobury where I paced at 37min. This was more difficult than pacing faster times…
I then drove to Uttoxeter so I could go to a nearby village for a harp recital by ex pupil Bethany Caswell. I also had a brief walk around the centre of Uttoxeter.
Sun 1st June
Drove to Aston on Clun and met Clare and Ginny Billett. We went for lunch at a 14th century courthouse/now pub and then drove straight to a classical music concert. The pianist there was a Purcellian.
Tue 3rd
In the evening I went to the Royal Institution to see a talk with Stephen Pinker and Richard Dawkins. John Dowdle and Anne Fuller came with me. Peter Jenkins and two other Watford Humanists were also there.
Thu 5th
After a short run in the morning I went to see my mum briefly and then went to my first Haringey SACRE meeting at the Alevi centre in Wood Green.
I then dashed to Luton airport to pick up Katerina who was returning from a week in Greece.
Fri 6th
Morning visit to Aboyne Lodge primary school to talk in assembly and then to yr 5&6 in a class Q&A about humanism.
Lunch at Toni’s to finalise things on the Greek Night of the 27th.
Sat 7th:
Went to South Oxhey Parkrun for my 250th parkrun and also Mel’s 60th birthday. I managed a gold standard time of 24:25, 8th overall and 1st in age group.
From there I went straight to the RVC to referee a friendly football game between vets teams.
In the evening we went to The Metropolitan for Mel’s 60th birthday party!
Sunday 8th
At lunchtime I went to The Purcell School and helped Andy to referee the 5-a-side games. Only 3 teams but it was good fun!
Monday 9th
Went to a Greek dancing group in Oakwood … too many dances, too many steps and the music kept skipping…
Tuesday 10th
Early rise and set off with Stefanos down to the New Forest to see Neil & Brenda. We drive to a lovely pub/restaurant for lunch and then a walk along the sea front with a view of the Isle of Wight.
Drove back in time to set off for my first Enfield SACRE meeting in Palmers Green.
Wed 11th June
A 7mile jog followed by a bit of gardening at The Pace Garden
At 5pm I went to the Barnet SACRE at St Katharine’s Church.
After wards I went to see my mum briefly.
Thu 12th:
Went to see an amazing concert at The Dukes Hall at The Royal Academy of music. Piano music for two pianos and Rachmaninov… Kasparas, Milda, Anelise and Lily on page turning!
Fri 13th:
Woke up at 4am so I went for a short run before driving up to Sheffield for the Humanists UK convention . En route we stopped for tea and coffee at Athos’ house near Nottingham.
Busy day of workshops followed by the Comedy Evening at the Octagon Centre.
Sat 14th:
Very early run at the nearby park (where the parkrun would run later)
A day of talks and discussions at the Humanists 2025 at the Octagon in Sheffield.
Sun 15th
A short run again at the nearby park in Sheffield.
More talks at Humanists 2025 and then the AGM. A long weekend in Sheffield. all about humanism.
Tue 18th
An early rise to visit Tanners Wood junior school. After a whole school assembly I then did 4 one hour sessions with individual groups.
Fri 20th: I went to Watford General Hospital and spoke to a group of chaplains about humanism. We then had a Q&A.
In the evening we went to see the band NAVARO at Abbots Langley.
Sat 21st:
Jogged to Cassiobury Park for the Parkrun and also saw Stefanos and Jo. Afterwards I did some litter picking and in the evening we went to Aileen’s wedding reception at Abbots Langley at a really beautiful stately home.
Tue 24th
Went and picked up Nitsa and went to Whitewebbs House for a big breakfast! We then walked around the lake near the Toby there and then did a bit of recycling from Vaso’s house.
In the evening I went to the CLH meeting with Peter Tatchell as the main speaker.
Thu 26th June:
Went to the Union Theatre in Southwark to see Alice’s play “Nearlyweds”. It was amazing! But I didn’t expect to be pulled on stage … twice… to take part! I even had a line to say!!
Fri 27th
We had the Greek night event at Toni’s Greek tavern with 50 Watford Joggers. Lots of food, quiz questions and a bit of Greek dancing.
Sat 28th
Early start to the day at Hemel for the 6-aside football tournament. Refereeing until 2pm. Then home for a couple of hours sleep before then driving to Alexandra Palace for the Wood Green School reunion I organised! Around 25 people turned up on a lovely evening on the top of London…
Sun 29th
A day of refereeing in the heat at JFK school in Hemel Hempstead. From 9am till 5pm.
In the evening I did my Greek and English hour shows on Koubebi radio.
Mon 30th
Went with Stefanos to my mum. Nitsa, Roula, Pambos and they had their visitors from Cyprus there with them. After my mum we went to Ally Pally and had pizza and drinks.
Wed 3July
Went to Abbot’s Hill school and took part in an interfaith panel with questions from the girls. Very enjoyable hour.
In the evening we went to Enfield Town to see a gig by Eleni (Echo wants her voice back). Before the gig we found a Souvlaki place nearby and had something to eat. Before her there was a support singer/guitarist Edmund Jeffery, he was very good!
After Eleni’s session (where she dedicated her song “Wizard” to me!, Eve Polycarpou sang her new song.
Thu 3rd:
Flight to Luxembourg was delayed by an hour plus…Once we took off from Stansted it was just a 50min flight. Very civilised short tram ride to the Centre / hotel. Travel by tram/bus is free n Luxembourg
Fri 4th
A day spent walking around the beautiful city of Luxembourg!
In the evening we went to an open air rock concert with a classical orchestra!
Sat 5th
Up early for a run around the nearby forest with another delegate who offered to navigate.
A day of talks and discussions at the Coque followed. In the evening I went back to Theatre for some classical music and opera!
Sun 6th
The General Assembly was at times intense with discussions and amendments and voting.
Mon 7th
It was a grey and raining day for our flight back to Stansted.
Tue 8th
Spent almost all day in bed trying to shake off a cold/throat… but still got up at 6pm to go and referee a match for Richard Wenham’s boys at Queens school.
Wed 9th
Got up nice and early to go into Parliament square for the for the Climate Coalition Mass Lobby. Watford Humanists and Central London Humanists were represented there!
In the evening we went to Wembley to see the musical Starlight Express, 30 years on…
Sat 12th
After a Parkrun at Cassiobury we drove to Apps Court for BoogieTown 2025. The last two miles took almost an hour to drive… and then another hour queueing to get in! The heat was unbearable … but the music was fantastic! Missed Evelyn Champagne King but caught half of Jocelyn Brown and all of Sister Sledge, Billy Ocean, UB40 and Cool & the Gang. Driving out again took a long time…
Sun 13th
At 11?I met up with Alex Williams and watched two shows at the Pump House theatre before I watched his Dial Up band and special guest singer at the venue next to the Theatre. A lovely 6 hours of music and songs!!
Mon 14
Went to Roula and Pambos with Stefanos. It was his 70th birthday! We then went to Crews Hill for late lunch at Redwood and then did some shopping at the garden centre across the road.
Tue 15th
I went for a longish run after many days of not running. 12 miles along the Ebury and back.
Later in the afternoon drove to Reading to a gathering of Reading Humanists. They had speakers from Care4Calais a group which supports asylum seekers.
Wed 16th
A 4 mile run, then on to do some gardening at The Peace Garden then a visit to mum before then going to Radio Dacorum to be interviewed by Leslie …
Fri 18th
A short run and then went to see Electric Umbrella at the River Colne. Very impressed with how inclusive they are with all the people they work with.
We then went to Southgate for a meal with Areti, followed by a walk around Trent Park. We then went to a Watford Humanists get together at The Holiday Inn. after that I picked up Stefanos from Popworld and gave him a lift home.
Sun 20th
In the afternoon we went to trial run a new ParkRun at King George V at Holywell.
Tue 22nd
Attended the church service / funeral / celebration of Robert Henry a friend from Wood Green School.
Wed 23rd
After the HJ mile (6;54) I drove to Hemel to play football with an over 50s group. It was good fun and good standard.
Fri 25th
picked up some Fish & Chips from Costas’ shop and went round to Vaso’s to eat. We then recycled lots more books from Tryfonas’ study.
In the evening I went for my first kickabout session at Harpenden. It was as good as the Hemel session.
Mon 28th
We finally finished clearing Alex’s garden which turned into a jungle! It took 3 days and on the first day we got stung by some aggressive hornets or wasps. But we got the job done today and 4 visits to the recycling co.
Wed 6th Aug
Myroula called, mum not feeling well. Went round there and called for an ambulance.
Fri 8th
Drove to Reading and went to Spitiko restaurant at Caversham to have a meal with David McKnight and his wife Christine. Spitiko was a lovely little restaurant and the food was lovely even though the portions were on the smaller side. Enjoyed the chats with David & Christine.
Later we walked around the riverside before the night at Premier Inn, across the road from the Oracle centre with all the restaurants by the riverside.
Sat 9th
Got up early and jogged to the start and f the Reading Parkrun. A lovely flat PR along the riverside and through a nature reserve. After the run we showered and walked to the GRAM venue which was a restaurant/ Lido and an upstairs meeting room. It was very good and I also talked to the group about WAH and my involvement with the Interfaith group.
After the conference. Checked on my mum who was still in North Middx hospital and she would be staying until at least Monday.
Tue 12th
Mum was kept in and I visited yesterday and today. She will probably stay until Saturday.
Sat 16th
Went to Peter Jenkins garden party, which was also an 80th birthday party!
Sun 17th
I refereed a friendly match at Queens School and then went to the Watford Joggers BBQ at the West Herts club
Sat 23rd
Went to the South Oxhey ParkRun and managed a :24 sec time, thanks to the kind timekeepers there!
Evdokia and her four boys came out very and we had a lovely long adventure at Cassiobury Park followed by pizza and ice cream at Costco!
25th
Onto Stansted airport for an evening flight to Athens. Arrived in Korinthos without door keys. Good thing we had a set with Eleni, so we stopped by her house to borrow them back.
26th: First souvlaki at Number 1 and listened to some of the open air concert with Ria Ellinidou.
27th
Visited Tranos who spent some days in hospital. Very thin and weak. Evening run through Kalamia followed by kalamboki and souvlaki at “meating point”.
Sat 30th
Short run around Kalamia beach and then went to Giorgos Papaioannou funeral.
In the evening we went to a music festival at Korfos.
Sub 31st
Went to Aktars for shopping, souvlaki at Argyri’s and then dropped Vaso at Platanias’s.
After a short rest U went to see Tranos and watch Liv v Ars (1-0) then went up to Sofiko with Katerina to see Eleonora Zouganelli in a lovely outdoor amphitheater concert.
Wed 3rd:
Went to an amazing classical music concert with the soprano Afrodite Patoulidou!
Thu 4th Sept:
Went to a concert at the Kallimarmaro to see / hear the music of Kazantzidis!
Fri 5th:
An evening at the Ancient Corinth archaeological site with the Mikis Theodorakis orchestra.
Sat 6th:
Back at the Corinth archaeological site for a concert of classical opera and musical songs!
Fri 5th:
In the evening we went to the ancient Corinth museum area and listened to a concert of songs by Mikis Theodorakis, an event on the year of what would have been his 100th birthday.
Sat 6th:
An evening of classical singing, opera and songs from musicals at the Ancient Corinth outdoor area.
Sun 7thMon 8th;
Just after midnight there was a strong 5.2 Richter earthquake. School the house for about 3 seconds.
Tue 9th;
We had delivery of bedside wardrobes.
In the evening we saw Penelope and had Greek style doughnuts with pistachio nuts sauce… we then walked to Ieratiki and saw a bit of the 80’s style music event with “Group in Therapy” and Sofia Arvaniti. We left early and I saw the end of the Greece v Lithuania basketball game.
Wed 10th:
Drove up to Stimaga where my father in law was a teacher around the time Katerina was born.
Then drove up to Koutsi (Korfiotissa) where I spent many weeks with the Panoutsopoulos family in July-August 1975,
Thu 11th;
Did a few bits of tasks with tax logistria and a contract symvolaiografo with a title deed from 1964… and then packed (light) for the return flight to London.
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Sat/Sun 13/14
Refereed 6 matches in 2 days, even though my left foot started hurting from the very first morning game at Met Police…
Sun 21st
Went to Hoddesdon to run a cross country with Watford Joggers. Just under 5 miles in around 42 minutes.
Tue 23rd
Spent the afternoon at Ham house near Richmond.
Wed 24th Sept: Attended the Wren Academy in Finchley and spoke to all the year 12s about humanism. We also had a Q&A session.
Thu 25th
Drove mum and Myroula to Luton for a flight to Cyprus.
Fri 26th
Went to The Metropolitan for a MacMillan cake & coffee charity event.
In the afternoon I took Anna to the Sarratt Village Hall for a concert in the evening.
I went to the concert in the evening. Four students of the Purcell School took part in the concert.
Tue 30th
In the evening went to a small intimate downstairs venue at Camden to see Kat perform. The Libra is a lovely venue but it’s on top of the tube line and every 15 min or so the ground shakes when the train moves under.
Fri 3rd Oct
A family meal of pork kebabs!
Sat 4th October
Stefanos meets his new carer Milosz and does a walk/jog park run with him at Cassiobury Park
Sun 5th Oct
Flight to Malaga for a week’s holiday in Fuengirola.
It was an early start to the day and a busy Luton airport. The flight was bumpy and the Malaga airport was crowded. The drive to Fuengirola was smooth and we had late breakfast while waiting to get into our apartment.
Mon6th Oct
Walked into Fuengirola and saw places we hadn’t seen before
Tue 7th
Drove up to Mijas and walked around the lovely shops.
After Mijas we drove up to a town further up the mountain
Thu 9th Oct
Decided to do a round trip around Andalucía / Costa del Sol. First off we stopped at nearby Benalmadena. We stopped an amazing Buddhist temple at the top of the hill with amazing views!
We then drove back to the car rental place and swapped the car as it had a bit of the plastic side panel hanging off. Then drove inland to Cartama where we climbed up to this amazing ancient church
Then round to a town called Coin
In this town we found an amazing restored monastery turned into a museum.
Then we drove to Monda where we sat and had a lovely pizza.
Then we drive to Ojen which just happened to have a street fiesta going
Then we drove to Marbella where we found this lovely Orange Square where we had churros and hot chocolate.
Sat 11th
Drove back to Ojén at midday and watched the Flamenco dancing by a few groups of young girls.
After that we drove up the mountains to Istán, a lovely village with amazing scenery, at the end of a huge lake. We had lunch at the the posh restaurant at the top of the village (had the most expensive plate of mushrooms ever!)
Then drove to San Pedro de Alcantara and walked along the lovely long promenade.
Sun 12th
Flew back to Luton and it was surprisingly a lovely mild, sunny afternoon.
Monday 13th
Drove down to Lymington near the New Forest for a family break with Stefanos. Found our little lodge and then went to a nearby Waitrose for some shopping before a walk along the seafront at Milton on sea.
Tue 14th
Drove back to Milford on Sea and then walked the mile and half to the Hurst Tudor castle almost a few hundred metres from the coast of the Isle of Wight.
After lunch we went and picked up Neil T and went to Sway where we walked into the New Forest and saw some free roaming horses.
We’d 15th
In the morning we drove to Hengistbury Head Beach. We walked along the coast and saw the lovely views across to Christchurch on one side and Isle of Wight on the other. We walked to the very end where the beach huts are and just a few metres across to Burford on the other side.
We then drove across to Mudeford, Avon beach where we had fish & chips on the beach.
We then drove to Neil’s house where we picked him up a Brenda. Then drove to Brockenhurst for cake and hot chocolate.
We finally drove to Barton on Sea for a short walk along the cliff edge before getting back to our lodge.
Thu
Drove to just outside Bournemouth. Walked along the seafront to a Harvester where we had lunch. We then walked all the way to Bournemouth Pier where we went up on the observation wheel. We then walked back to the car. Over 25000 steps!
Fri 17th
Drove to Highcliff castle and walked along the nearby beach down many steps
We then drove back to London stopping for lunch at Camberley before heading home.
Sat 18th
Drove to Cassiobury Park for a gentle Parkrun and then I did some litter picking.
At 22:40 I went to Parmiters to referee an U11 Titans game.
At 4pm we had the WAH AGM at Mill Way.
Sun 19th
Early drive to Westfield Astro where I referreed 4 games in a row! From 9am until 3pm!
In the evening I did my usual music shows on Koubebi.com
Thu 23rd
Katerina’s birthday! We drove up to Edgware with Stefanos where Vaso was waiting and we all went for brunch!
We then drove back and went to see Surinderella at The Palace Theatre! It was great fun!
Sat 25th
Parkrun at Cassiobury in the morning. Helped Katerina get an under 27 min parkrun gold standard. In the evening we went to the Queen Elizabeth Hall to see Out-Spoken with an appearance from Daisy Chute also.
7th Nov:
Drove to Ealing to pace Katerina and Helen. They both got their gold standards.
In the afternoon I went to Theatro Technis for a gathering of Cypriot artists highlighting their work and projects:
Sat 8th Nov
Drove to Victoria Park in Hackney and run the 10km race. Got my final gold standard medal for the Beechnut. 50:46.
9th: Laid a wreath at the Remembrance Ceremony on behalf of Watford Area Humanists.
11th:
At midday I went to see a special Remembrance lunchtime concert at the Purcell School.
In the afternoon I attended SACRE meeting for Enfield at Enfield Lock.
Wednesday 12th
Lunchtime refereeing at the County Ground.
Late afternoon I went to the Houses of Parliament for the APPG Humanists AGM and discussion.
Thu 13th Nov
Early morning drive to Eton & Slough college to take part in an Interfaith event for the 6th group.
Fri 14th
Another early morning rise this time to visit a junior school in Barking for another inter-faith event.
27th Nov
In the evening I attended the Bushey Interfaith Forum meeting at the Jain Centre in Falconer Road in Bushey.
Fri 28th Nov
Went to Kings Cross to meet up with Bhagi,Dinesh and Michael and had a meal at Rosa’s Thai restaurant.
Sat 29th Nov
Travelled to Conway Hall for the NSS members day and AGM.
Mon 1st Dec
Went to the Proud Watford event at the Palace Theatre upstairs bar where Alex Williams sang some songs.
Thu 4th Dec
In the evening I went to the Old Diorama Centre for a CLH festive party with Alex Williams as the MC. Amongst other speakers I spoke briefly about Watford Area Humanists.
Sat 6th Dec
At 2pm we went to St Demetrios church for the christening of Leonidas Fellas, son of Niko Fellas.
Sun 7th Dec
Drove early to Milton Keynes to run the MK Winter Half Marathon.
Finished in 1:58:59 and was pleased with that.
Thu 11th Dec
The Purcell school started a Giving Day at 10am with continuous live music for 24 hours.
Fri -12th
After taking Anna to Stansted airport we went to the Watford Joggers Christmas party.
Thu 18th
Went to Rickmansworth School today and answered questions about humanism to yr 11 students who had an RE day.
Fri 19th:
A group of us from Watford Area Humanists went to the Palace Theatre to see Prof. Brian Cox. Very interesting talk but it was at least A Level Physics standard.
Wed 24th
Out for lunch at Tavernaki in Potters Bar. Stefanos enjoyed his £28.50 squid meal We then visited Roula and Pambo. Saw Konstantino and Ciara briefly and also Skevoula and kids.. We then went to. Nitsa for a bit.
Thu 25th
Christmas Parkrun with a huge crowd! Needed more than the three funnels! People were queueing back to the path at the end of the run… After the run we went to visit my mum after having Christmas lunch at home with Vaso and Stefanos joining us.
Sat 27th
I was a pacer for 28 min at the Cassiobury Parkrun.
Tue 30th
Joined the Friends of Hilfield Brook and did some clearing up at the path behind Park Avenue..
